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Bradford, Springer become free agents

Bradford, Springer become free agents

ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays relievers Chad Bradford and Russ Springer filed for free agency on Friday, the second day that eligible players could officially declare their intentions to test the market.

Bradford, 35, went 1-0 for the Rays in 2009 with a 4.35 ERA in 20 games. The veteran underwent surgery in February to have loose bodies removed from his right elbow, which delayed the beginning of his season. He did not make his first appearance of the season until June 27.

The Rays acquired the submarine-throwing Bradford from the Orioles on Aug. 7, 2008, and he made 21 appearances out of the bullpen in 2008, 18 of which were scoreless, crafting a 1.42 ERA.

Springer, 40, was acquired by the Rays in early August from the A's when they claimed the veteran right-hander on waivers. He went 1-3 with a 4.11 ERA in 26 appearances for the Rays.

Bill Chastain is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.